Uganda has officially welcomed delegates from across Asia and Africa to the 63rd Session of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization (AALCO), held at the scenic Speke Resort Munyonyo on the shores of Lake Victoria. On behalf of the President, the government, and the people of Uganda, Speaker Anita Among extended a warm greeting to all participants, including esteemed observers and partners of the organization.
Hosting the 63rd Session is a significant milestone for Uganda, marking the second time the country has hosted AALCO. The last occasion was in 1993, more than thirty years ago. Speaker Among emphasized Uganda’s gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the objectives and mission of AALCO as a member state.
The Annual Session is the highest decision-making body of AALCO, providing member states a platform to discuss key issues, develop ideas, and reach consensus on international legal matters. These sessions are more than routine meetings—they symbolize the unity and shared vision of Asia and Africa in promoting legal cooperation, dialogue, and adherence to the rule of law.
Speaker Among highlighted the historical roots of AALCO, tracing its origins back to the 1955 Bandung Conference, which led to the formation of the Asian Legal Consultative Committee in 1956. The founding seven nations—Burma, Ceylon, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Japan, and Syria—set the foundation for an organization that now boasts 49 member states from both continents, reflecting its growth and global relevance.
The organization’s evolution over the years underscores its enduring importance. Initially established for a five-year term, AALCO’s mandate was repeatedly extended, and in 1981 it was placed on a permanent footing. Its transformation, including the name change to the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization, reflects the substantial contributions it has made to international law from an Afro-Asian perspective.
This year’s session provides a vital opportunity for delegates to reaffirm shared commitments, exchange expertise, and strengthen the legal and diplomatic ties between Asia and Africa. It also serves as a platform to address contemporary international challenges through cooperative and lawful solutions.
As Uganda hosts this historic session, the event reinforces the country’s role as a hub for international dialogue and legal collaboration. The 63rd AALCO Annual Session is not only a celebration of the organization’s past achievements but also a forward-looking gathering aimed at shaping a stronger, more united future for both continents.
